The rigor of the CNA course necessitates a comprehensive, valid and reliable English Language Assessment to evaluate the English proficiency of non-native speakers.  The program requires that students function at “intermediate” and “advanced” levels. The BEST Plus oral test is utilized to assess listening, comprehension and speaking ability; a student must score between NRS ESL levels 5 (“high intermediate”) and 7 (“exit”). Participants are also tested on their reading and writing skills and familiarity with vocabulary commonly seen on the CNA licensing exam.   The whole person is considered when assessing the student’s overall language ability and aptitude when deciding whether they are admitted into the program fully or on a trial basis. 

CPR: BLS (Basic Life Support) with AED for Health Care Providers is integrated with English as a Second Language instruction for non-native speakers, aiming to improve their language skills while teaching them how to perform CPR effectively. Students are prepared for the American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS) exam with two days, or about 12 hours, of contextualized instruction. The ESOL and CPR instructors use a variety of teaching methods and student-centered activities to prepare students with the vocabulary and phrases crucial for the exam.  Students admitted to the ESL/CNA program can be reassessed for readiness after their participation and performance in the ESL/CPR course.  All CNA candidates must have an active CPR: BLS with AED Certification to participate in clinical rotation. 

The Pre-CNA course is provided free of cost by SUNY North Bronx CCOC to Lehman’s CNA course applicants. Students receive access to an online Pre-CNA course and have 6-8 weeks to work through the modules asynchronously.  Modules typically cover medical terminology, patient care techniques, and communication skills within a healthcare context, ensuring that students are well-prepared to enter an ESL/CNA course with stronger vocabulary and healthcare knowledge.  

Student Requirements:  

• NYS ID or passport – non-US citizens must have a green card 
• Proof of income/letter of support 
• Proof of address 
• Social Security Number  
• Asylees must provide border papers.

The Integrated course is designed for non-native speakers and combines English language instruction with the NYSED mandated CNA training curriculum (125 hours of Anatomy & Physiology, Clinical Skills, and Clinical Rotation).  

In collaboration with the RN instructor, the ESOL instructor utilizes a variety of activities to identify students’ language needs and to provide students with additional language support. This integrated instructional approach helps students improve their English proficiency while simultaneously acquiring the skills and knowledge needed to become a CNA. Instruction takes place at CUNY on the Concourse (2501 Grand Concourse, a NYSED approved facility) and Clinical Rotations take place at local nursing homes. Students must pass all three training components to be eligible to take the NYS CNA Exam. 

Student Requirements: 

• Recent Physical 
• Lab work with proof of immunization 
• Negative Drug test 
• Proof of flu shot & COVID Vaccination 
• NYS Issued ID or Passport 
• Social Security Number 
• CPR: BLS with AED Certification